S8 E8 Syntax and Grammar
In this episode of The Reading Teacher’s Lounge, hosts Mary and Shannon sit down with literacy expert Sara Lee to explore effective grammar and syntax instruction that supports both reading comprehension and student writing. The conversation focuses on how sentence structure, grammatical functions, and modifiers shape meaning, and why grammar should be taught as an integral part of literacy rather than in isolation.
Sara shares practical, classroom-ready strategies for embedding grammar instruction into reading and writing routines, with an emphasis on sentence-level work, sentence nuclei, and the intentional use of descriptive modifiers. The discussion also highlights the importance of responsive grammar instruction that honors students’ language acquisition backgrounds and provides meaningful, authentic practice opportunities.
This episode offers research-aligned insights and actionable strategies for educators seeking to strengthen students’ language comprehension, writing development, and overall understanding of how English works.
S8 E 3 Affirming Practices
In this engaging episode of the Reading Teachers Lounge, the hosts welcome Dr. Jasmine Rogers, a dual-role educator who supports teachers with best practices in structured literacy and teaches at American University. Dr. Rogers delves into her research on black language and structured literacy instruction, focusing on how language within the black community often differs from standard school language. She shares her journey, sparked by encounters with students who interpreted reading materials through the lens of black English, leading her to explore how teachers respond to different dialects and languages. Dr. Rogers emphasizes the importance of affirming students' home languages and experiences in the classroom, detailing her research and personal experiences to highlight effective strategies. The conversation covers translanguaging, the impact of proper pronunciation, and the role of authentic teacher-student connections. Dr. Rogers also discusses the importance of teacher reflection, intrinsic and extrinsic motivation, and culturally equitable practices in literacy instruction.